Mumbai, September 7, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Ireland is studying the rapid growth of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) to understand how the digital payments system could offer lessons or opportunities for Ireland, the European Union and other international markets, Sean McWilliams, Head of Fintech & Payments at IDA Ireland, said on Monday.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Global FinTech Festival in Mumbai, McWilliams said his visit was focused on understanding major trends and growth opportunities in India’s fintech and payments sector. He was also exploring how Ireland could support Indian companies seeking to expand internationally.
“UPI is obviously a key part of India’s payments ecosystem, and I’m very interested in learning more about it,” McWilliams said.
He noted that countries and regions worldwide were examining ways to make digital payments more accessible, seamless and easier to use. McWilliams said he was particularly interested in assessing the relevance of India’s UPI growth for Ireland and the EU and identifying possible areas of crossover with fintech developments in Ireland.
McWilliams also pointed to Ireland’s expanding focus on artificial intelligence (AI), saying the country had recently launched a national AI strategy to strengthen its position as a national and international hub for the technology.
The strategy, he said, emphasises emerging technologies, skills and talent development, and creating an environment that enables innovation while ensuring AI is developed responsibly and within an appropriate regulatory framework.
“Ireland has a long track record of innovation in financial services, and AI is now the next key opportunity for companies, from global fintech multinationals to fast-growing startups, to harness technology and drive their international growth,” he said.
Ireland is scheduled to host an international AI summit on October 14 as part of its presidency of the European Union this year. McWilliams said the summit would bring together companies, policymakers and international thought leaders to examine key AI trends, challenges and opportunities while highlighting Ireland’s position as an AI hub.
He also said Ireland offered several advantages for Indian companies seeking global expansion and diversification of their international operations.
“I think Ireland offers a number of key factors that would be attractive to Indian companies looking to grow globally and diversify their international operations,” McWilliams said.
FOLLOW NOW
